Cherry blossoms can be viewed from January to June in different regions in Japan, but most of cherry blossom festivals fall between March to May. Festival dates are usually determined with reference to cherry blossom forecasts and vary from year to year.
Gorgeous flowers are main attraction of the festivals, but various traditional Japanese performing arts presented in many festivals can't be missed. Joining tea ceremonies held under cherry trees can be a memorable experience as well. As hanami (cherry blossom viewing party) is an important Japanese custom, people enjoy eating home-cooked meals or take-out food under cherry trees. Take a look at the festival vendors which sell lots of food and souveniors, including regional crafts and speciality food in the region. It's notable that many cherry blossom festivals hold light-up events in the evening. Below is a list of pupular cherry blossom festivals in Japan.
Motobu Town, Okinawa prefecture
The earliest cherry blossom festival in Japan.
Festival Period: January 16 - February 7, 2010
Matsuyama-city, Ehime
The donjon of Matsuyama Castle is illuminated in the evening (until 9 p.m.) More than 300 sakura trees.
Cherry Blossom Season: Late March - Early April
Festival Period: April 2 -4, 2010
Tsuyama-city, Okayama
More than 5,000 sakura trees. Tea ceremonies and Japanese music performances are held during the festivals.
Cherry Blossom Season: Early April - Mid April
Festival Period: April 1-15, 2010
Light-up: - 10 p.m.
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